How to forward calls from RingCentral

There are many reasons you might want to forward calls from your RingCentral number—maybe you’re setting up Upfirst’s AI answering service, heading on vacation, or just want to make sure important calls reach you wherever you are. This guide will show you, step-by-step, how to forward all calls, set up conditional forwarding for missed calls, and turn off call forwarding on RingCentral.

How to forward all calls from RingCentral

If you want every incoming call to your RingCentral number to ring on a new phone number (like your cell or answering service), follow these steps:

1. Log in to your RingCentral account
   Open the RingCentral app (desktop or mobile) or go to the RingCentral website and sign in.
2. Go to Settings
   Click on your profile picture or initials, then select “Settings” from the menu.
3. Navigate to Call Handling & Forwarding
   Find “Phone” or “Call Handling & Forwarding” in the menu. (This name may vary slightly depending on your version.)
4. Edit Forwarding Numbers
   Under the “Call Forwarding” section, click “Edit” or “Add Number.”
5. Enter the new phone number
   Type in the number you want to forward your calls to (e.g., your mobile, a landline, or your Upfirst AI answering service number).
6. Set the order and rules
   You can decide if you want the call to ring your devices and the forwarding number at the same time, or one after the other. Adjust the sequence as needed.
7. Save your changes
   Click “Save” or “Done” to activate call forwarding.

Now, all incoming calls to your RingCentral number will be forwarded to the number you’ve chosen.

How to forward only missed calls (conditional call forwarding) on RingCentral

Conditional call forwarding means your calls are only sent to another number if you don't answer, your line is busy, or your phone is unreachable. This is useful if you want to try answering calls first, but still have backup coverage.

Here’s how to set up conditional call forwarding on RingCentral:

1. Log in to your RingCentral account
   Use the app or website and sign in.
2. Go to Call Handling & Forwarding
   Find this option under “Settings.”
3. Set up your call forwarding rules
   You’ll see options for how calls are handled when you don’t answer, when your line is busy, or when you’re offline.
4. Add your forwarding number
   In the “If not answered” or “Forward when unreachable” section, enter the number you want calls to go to (for example, your Upfirst AI receptionist).
5. Adjust timing (optional)
   You can usually set how many seconds to ring your number before forwarding.
6. Save your changes
   Click “Save” or “Apply” to finish.

With this setup, only calls you can’t answer will be sent to your backup number.

How to turn off call forwarding on RingCentral

Ready to stop forwarding calls? Here’s how to turn off all forwarding settings in RingCentral:

1. Log in to your RingCentral account
   Open the app or website and sign in.
2. Go to Call Handling & Forwarding
   Navigate to this area in your settings.
3. Remove or disable forwarding numbers
   Find the list of forwarding numbers. Delete them, uncheck them, or toggle off call forwarding (the exact method depends on your version).
4. Save your changes
   Click “Save” or “Done.” Your calls will now ring only on your RingCentral devices.

FAQs about call forwarding on RingCentral

Does RingCentral charge for call forwarding?
RingCentral does not charge extra for call forwarding to US numbers, but standard usage or long-distance rates may apply if you forward to numbers outside your plan. Always check with your RingCentral plan for specific details.

Can I forward calls internationally with RingCentral?
Yes, you can forward calls to international numbers, but additional charges may apply. Make sure to check RingCentral’s international rates before setting this up.

Will my phone still ring when call forwarding is enabled?
It depends on how you set up your forwarding. You can choose to have both your RingCentral app/device and the forwarding number ring at the same time, or send calls straight to the forwarding number.

Can I forward text messages too?
RingCentral does not support forwarding SMS/text messages to another phone number. Call forwarding only affects voice calls.

How is immediate forwarding different from conditional forwarding?
Immediate forwarding sends all calls to your chosen number instantly, without ringing your RingCentral phone. Conditional forwarding only sends calls if you don’t answer, your line is busy, or you’re offline.

Can I forward calls to multiple numbers at once?
Yes, RingCentral allows you to set multiple forwarding numbers and decide whether to ring them all at once or in a specific order. You can customize this in your Call Handling settings.

Never miss another call—try Upfirst for free

If you want to ensure every caller gets a friendly, helpful response (even when you can’t answer), forward your RingCentral number to Upfirst. Upfirst is an AI answering service that picks up every call, answers questions, collects important info, and sends you a concise summary by email and SMS. No more missed opportunities or voicemails piling up! Try Upfirst free for 14 days and see how easy it can be to stay connected to your callers—no matter where you are.